When you have decided that a dog is the pet for you, there are certain preparations that you will need to make before your new pet can come home.

Firstly you will need to ensure that you have all the necessary equipment that your new dog will require such as a bed, food and water bowls, dog or puppy food, a collar and some toys. For more information on the equipment your dog will need, continue>

You will also need to prepare your home and garden for your new arrival by ensuring the following:

In your garden ensure there are no holes or gaps in your fence and gate that your new puppy or dog could escape through.

Make sure that anything dangerous in the garden is fenced off eg, ponds

Remove any poisonous plants or ensure your dog doesn't have access to them.

In your house, remove anything dangerous that your new puppy could chew, eg electric cables or other household objects that could be chewed and swallowed.

Make sure your puppy doesn't have access to any stairs that they could climb up and fall down.

Ensure that anything that your puppy could become stuck in/under is removed or blocked off.

Remove anything in your house or garden that could fall onto and hurt your new puppy.

By making the above preparations before you bring your puppy or dog home, you will be providing a safe environment for your new pet.